This year, Allure chose their top 10 picks to compete as finalists in the competition. When I got the call that I was one of them, I just about passed out. I stopped walking, sat straight down on the sidewalk, and tried to act normal. But this isn't normal, this is HUGE.

All my life, I've set large goals, but sometimes, I let the largest ones pass out of fear. Fear is a powerful feeling, and one of my personal goals for 2014, was to ignore fear, and only follow the words "I AM" with words of optimism and strength. I would love to win this competition, but I mean it when I say I already feel like I've won. Challenging myself to even apply for a spot, and putting myself in the vulnerable position of letting America vote either for or against me, is such personal progress. We all have insecurities, and some of mine had to be broken down in order to make this happen. I am so proud of myself for that, and at the very least, I will take that away from this experience.

Beginning this Monday, April 14th, we finalists will compete in up to five challenges, and YOUR votes can keep me in it to win it! And get this- you can win incredible prizes just for voting. Not a bad deal right?

I'll keep you posted each week as the new challenges are released! I'm excited to share my love of the beauty industry and hope you guys enjoy what I've been working on!

Thank you so much to Allure for this opportunity! I'm also just beaming with gratitude, as the close friends and family in my life have shown an incredible amount of support.

See you at the first Challenge on Monday! Until then, you can see my intro video and interview HERE!